The governor said they covered a lot of ground – from discussing closing loops in the background check system and the need for an elevated welfare check when family members raise concerns – to more controversial topics such as assault rifles and private gun sales.

Abbott ended the meeting with a heartfelt message to the El Paso community: "We know that you feel like you are attacked as human beings. We want you to know that we as Texans come shoulder-to-shoulder and side-by-side with you as one family, working together with you in this healing process. You are us. We are you. And we're going to be there for you all the way through."